The overcrowded Medium Custodial Centre (MCC) in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, has drawn the attention of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA).

According to FIDA, if a jail facility that was initially built to house 600 offenders is allowed to house 1,715 more, it might lead to a humanitarian crisis if it is not immediately addressed.

In cooperation with the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN) and the Youth Alive Foundation (YAF), the President of the State branch, Barr. Iquo Abia (Esq.), took a tour of the jail and took a break to interact with the detainees, particularly the female offenders.

Criticizing the state and well-being of the prisoners, the FIDA head expressed disapproval of the overcrowding and gave her group’s word that they would work with the prison administration to clear the facility so that a humanitarian disaster would not occur.

“FIDA decried the congestion of the facility which was meant originally for about 600 inmates, but currently holding about 1,715 inmates. We have set up modalities to help decongest it,” she assured.

The delegation also emphasized the necessity of quickly establishing a Mother/Child Unit (MCU) at the facility in order to prevent newborns delivered there from being exposed to infections that could cause maternal and infant mortality.

Donations of drinks, toiletries, and other supplies were given to the prisoners and their infants.

Upon welcoming the team, Mr. Julius Ezeugwu, Comptroller of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCS), Akwa Ibom State Command, expressed gratitude to the group for their visit through the Assistant Comptroller of Corrections (ACC), Uyo, Mr. Festus Akpan.

He pointed out that the gesture would significantly enhance the prisoner welfare programs.